AN inspirational Northwich fundraiser has received an award from the Prime Minister in recognition of her work on World Down’s Syndrome Day.

Fifteen-year-old Emma Harris, who has Down’s syndrome, has won a ‘Points of Light’ award, handed out by Theresa May in honour of her charitable efforts, which last year scooped a North West Charity Award win.

Two years ago, Emma decided to raise money through a gingerbread sock biscuits sale and, with support from Roberts Bakery and the Cheshire Down’s Syndrome Support Group, has since sold 52,000 of them.

The Points of Light accolade celebrates outstanding individual volunteers who are making a change in their community.

Emma and one of her biscuits, pictured with dad Chris and CDSSG CEO Julie Duff

Emma said: "I am really happy and proud to be given this award by the Prime Minister.

“Selling the gingerbread sock biscuits means that Cheshire Down's Syndrome Support Group can help people with Down's syndrome and their families.

“We are selling more gingerbread socks than ever this year."

Around 70 schools are now involved in the gingerbread sock idea, as well as Morrisons Manufacturing in Winsford and Howdens Joinery, which has sold more than 2,500 biscuits through its Cheshire depots.

In a personal letter to Emma, Mrs May wrote: “Through your gingerbread sock appeal you have created an innovative way of raising funds and awareness for ‘Cheshire Down’s Syndrome Support Group’.

“It is especially important, on World Down Syndrome Day, to recognise the positive impact of what you are doing and I wish you well with this year’s appeal.”

The Prime Minister has taken time out her busy schedule to write to congratulate Emma. Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire

To mark World Down’s Syndrome Day on Thursday, dog owners and their pooches will take part in a charity walk at Marbury Park.

Fundraisers will then gather at Hartford Hall on Saturday, March 23 for a 21.3-mile ‘Moochathon’ walk along the Whitegate Way.

A mini mooch of 2.13km will take place for younger participants, with the numbers symbolising the three copies of the number 21 chromosome that cause Down’s syndrome.

CDSSG CEO Julie Duff said: “We’re overwhelmed by the positive response we’ve had this year from so many schools, businesses, community groups and individuals and we can’t thank them enough.

“The last 12 months have been busier than ever for our charity and we have continued to grow with two new staff, three charity awards and the launch of exciting new projects.

“This World Down’s Syndrome Day we reflect on what's been a very busy year but we also start making plans for the days and months ahead.

“We will continue to do our utmost to make sure that people with Down's syndrome fulfil their potential and are recognised as valuable, respected champions of our community."

This website and associated newspapers adhere to the Independent Press Standards Organisation's Editors' Code of Practice. If you have a complaint about the editorial content which relates to inaccuracy or intrusion, then please contact the editor here. If you are dissatisfied with the response provided you can contact IPSO here